Biosafety

Institutional Biosafety Committees (IBCs) were established under the NIH Guidelines for Research Involving Recombinant DNA Molecules (http://osp.od.nih.gov/office-biotechnology-activities/rdna/nih_guidelines_oba.html) to provide local review and oversight of nearly all forms of research utilizing recombinant DNA. Over time, many institutions have chosen to assign their IBCs the responsibility of reviewing a variety of experimentation that involves biological materials (e.g., infectious agents) and other potentially hazardous agents (e.g., carcinogens).

Texas State faculty planning to work with any amount of rDNA and biohazardous materials are required to submit protocols for review and approval by the IBC prior to initiating their project. Protocols should be submitted far enough in advance to secure approval before the project start date. Applicants may also submit a request for Determination of Exempt Research.